Architecture & Design

Curious about building a backyard suite? Discover how Ottawa's new Zoning By-law 2026-50 impacts coach house footprint limits, setbacks, utility rules, and explore the advantages of choosing prefab. Are coach houses allowed in Ottawa? Rules & 2026 zoning changes explained Building a secondary dwelling unit in the…

Discover how silent architecture uses bio-based materials like cork and wool to reduce cortisol levels and create a restorative, high-performance longevity home. Silent architecture: designing for peace calm Let's face it folks, we live in very busy and noisy times, and the pace of modern life is impacting the…

Learn why prioritizing the building envelope over mechanical systems is the key to energy efficiency, lower costs, and long-term home resiliency. Envelope first: future-proofing and resiliency The term 'envelope first' is a very simple design concept that leads to homes that excel in the area of energy efficiency…

Applying the KISS philosophy of 'Keep It Super Simple" is what will help you build the best home you can on a budget. Find out which design features are the most complicated, expensive and risky for durability. The most cost-effective home design is the most basic one. Building a home that suits your lifestyle and…

Intelligent home devices allow you to control your home remotely, and send you notices of problems. Smart homes take advantage of smart phone technologies to provide you with automated control of your homes systems such as heating and lighting. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the key aspects of this…

The complete guide on when to hire an architect, how to find green design experts, typical costs, and the difference between architects, technologists, and design/build firms. The first step towards designing and building a home: Should you hire an architect? Knowing where to turn first to design and build a custom…

Explore the design-build model, a single-source solution that integrates architecture and construction. Learn how this approach streamlines green building projects, enhances accountability, and manages costs for both homeowners and professionals. Design-build companies are as simple as the name suggests, they bring…

The essential building science principle for placing insulation and vapor control layers to prevent condensation and moisture damage in high-performance walls. What is the two thirds rule? How insulation and wall assemblies work best In the world of durable, high-performance green building, few concepts are as…

Transform an underused attic into a valuable, livable space. This guide covers everything from structural requirements and insulation to building codes and design, ensuring a safe, efficient, and successful renovation. Attic conversion: a homeowner's and pro's guide Transforming an underused attic into livable space…

Find the perfect space-saving staircase for your home renovation, from spiral stairs to clever folding designs, and learn what's legal under building code. Staircase options for new homes and  renovations: a homeowner's and pro's guide Renovating a home to add living or storage space can sometimes require…

As heat waves increase in frequency and duration, the health risks and energy consumption for cooling buildings is exacerbated. Find out design features to keep homes cool without AC. Urban heat island effect and how to mitigate it Have you ever noticed how much hotter it feels in the city on a sweltering summer day…

The Awards recognize excellence in the design & execution of all types of sustainably-designed, high-performance Canadian residential & non-residential buildings & interiors, both new & renovated. Ecohome are collaborating with SABMag, here's more info. It's that time of year again, when Architects, Designers and…

The federal government has proposed a groundbreaking solution to the Canadian housing crisis: the establishment of a standardized home directory. Ecohome would like to see the accent on performance and sustainability. In Canada, the pursuit of homeownership faces formidable challenges, including escalating…

High performance energy efficient homes help to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool them, but this is only half of the story! The embodied carbon in the construction is also important, especially when building mid-rise high density homes. Embodied & operational carbon comparison for mid-rise…

Handing over the keys to the new owners of a LEED home built by students and donated to Habitat for Humanity. Our House is the story of a small town united around the construction of an exemplary home. After being awarded with the ‘Prix d'excellence’ at the end of 2017 by the Public Administrator of Quebec (the…